Top broadcaster Maia Dunphy has paid tribute to her 'remarkable' mum Helen following her death.
The star's mother died from cancer yesterday just days before her 50th wedding anniversary.
Maia stressed that referring to cancer as a battle signifies that some people don't fight hard enough, but stressed that her mother bore her illness with bravery.
The Dalkey woman thanked all those that had supported her over the last few days and shared photos of her mum who possessed rare and remarkable qualities.
She posted: "I can't believe I'm typing these words but my darling Mum Helen passed away today.
"Cancer is a f****** horror show, and I never trot out platitudes about 'fighting battles' because it somehow implies some people don't fight hard enough.
"But my mum bore her recent awful illness with the same stoicism she has approached everything in life, and those of you who know her well, will know how much has happened in these last difficult weeks and how she showed concern for everyone else until her last breath.
"But Helen didn't doubt for a second how much she was loved. She and my Dad, her beloved Tom, are married 50 years this Friday and we will be marking it as if she were here (but without her giving out to us for spending too much on gifts...)
"She was a remarkable woman; without pretension and with a very rare self-assuredness that was a testament to all the right choices she made in her life, and the acceptance of things she had no choice over.
"She was the most dedicated mum anyone could ever imagine; but even that was exceeded by her devotion to her only grandson.
"She and my dad became my family unit again over the last 5 years, and I am so grateful for their support and how much they loved my little Tom.
"My mum was a second mum to him and I simply could not have coped without her help.
"I'm lost without her already. We love you Mama. Sleep well."
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